The effect of Trypanosoma vivax infection on late pregnancy and postpartum return to cyclicity in Boran cattle

Abstract:

A study was designed to examine the effect of infection with Trypanosoma vivax
KETRI 2501 on the maintenance of pregnancy and postpartum return to reproductive
function in susceptible Galana (n= 6) and trypano-tolerant Orma Boran (n= 6) heifers during
the third trimester of pregnancy. Of the 12 study animals, 3 Galana and 3 Orma Boran heifers
served as controls. One of 3 Galana heifers calved prematurely with subsequent perinatal
loss. Of the 2 heifers that produced live calves, 1 calf died shortly after birth, while the other
survived. Two of 3 Orma heifers calved prematurely and all 3 calves died shortly after birth.
The 6 control heifers produced live calves at term, all of which survived. Infection with T.
vivax during the third trimester of pregnancy delayed the resumption of ovarian activity after
calving, with the Ormas taking a significantly (P< 0.05) shorter time from calving to …